How to Choose the Perfect Jewelry Color for Your Skin Tone, Hear it From Designers Themselves

Jewelry trends are constantly shifting between gold, silver, rose gold, and even combinations of all three, so it can be a little overwhelming trying to decide which metal works best for you. While personal preference plays a significant role, there are a few additional factors to consider, like your skin’s undertones and color analysis, which has become a popular method for figuring out which shades complement your natural palette.

Although color theory usually applies to clothing, the concept can easily translate to jewelry as well. Keep reading for top tips on choosing the best jewelry color for you, with insights from expert designers.

Jewelry Colors and Skin Undertones

If you’re unsure where to start when picking a jewelry color, your skin’s undertones might just provide the perfect guide. “Gold typically looks best on warmer, darker tones, and silver on cooler tones; rose gold is popular because it can work well on both,” says Alison Lou creative director and designer, Alison Chemla. “Personally, I think you should wear what you love regardless. I’m a yellow gold girl through and through, but I definitely had my phases with silver.”

Image credit: Lauryncakes

Among the choices, silver tends to be the most universally flattering. “Silver, being universally appealing, is an easy choice for many,” says Rellery founder Sally Rong. “Its versatility lies in its ability to complement all skin tones, and it’s particularly favored among younger individuals due to its modern appeal.” Plus, silver (specifically sterling, not platinum) is often more budget-friendly than gold.

That doesn’t mean gold can’t suit a range of skin tones—just make sure you choose the right karat. “The karat value dictates the intensity of the yellow—the higher the karat, the more profound and richer the yellow becomes,” Rong explains. Deeper yellow-gold tones tend to flatter darker skin tones, but 14K gold, which has a softer yellow hue, is a versatile option that suits most people well.

How to Choose the Best Jewelry Color for You

Play to Your Personal Style

Though it might seem simple, buying jewelry can be a thoughtful process—especially if you’re looking to invest in pieces you’ll wear for years. “First and foremost, consider your personal style and which metals best complement it,” suggests jewelry designer and founder Kendra Scott. Do you prefer the timeless elegance of gold, or are you more drawn to the sleek, modern feel of silver? And don’t forget to factor in the occasion—are you after an everyday staple, or something for a special event?

Chemla also advises reflecting on your history with jewelry: “When helping our customers decide, I always ask, ‘Have you been wearing this color gold for some time or are you trying something new?’” she explains. If you’re experimenting with a new metal like silver or white gold, she recommends starting with costume jewelry before committing to pricier pieces.

Consider Skin Sensitivity

Another important factor in choosing jewelry is how your skin reacts to certain materials. If you have sensitive skin, hypoallergenic jewelry made from solid gold or sterling silver is your best bet. Be sure to avoid nickel, which is often used in more affordable pieces to enhance shine but can tarnish over time and irritate your skin. Even if you’re not allergic to nickel, it’s generally best to stick with higher-quality metals like gold, silver, or titanium to avoid tarnishing and keep your skin happy.

Research the Materials

Image via Tanzire

In addition to avoiding nickel, Rong advises keeping an eye on your jewelry’s overall makeup. “Understanding the composition of your jewelry is critical not just for managing skin sensitivity, but also for overall health safety,” she says. Some manufacturers may use harmful low-cost metals like cadmium—a material linked to cancer—in their pieces, which could pose serious health risks, especially if worn daily.

Budget Considerations

While it’s important to choose jewelry that complements your style and skin tone, price is another essential factor. If your budget allows, Rong recommends opting for solid gold or silver, as they’re durable and hypoallergenic.

Budget-Friendly Gold Options

While sterling silver is relatively affordable, solid gold can be expensive. The good news? You can still get the gold look without breaking the bank. Gold-plated or gold vermeil accessories, particularly those with a sterling silver base, offer the same aesthetic at a lower cost and are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. However, “the gold layer may eventually fade,” Rong notes, though with vermeil, you can have your jewelry re-plated.

Another cost-effective option is gold-filled jewelry. “Gold-filled items tend to last a bit longer than vermeil ones,” says Rong. Just be cautious if you have allergies or sensitivities, as gold-filled pieces often have a brass core, which could trigger reactions in some people.

Are Mixed Metals a Good Idea?

Though some metals may suit your skin tone better than others, there’s no rule saying you can’t mix and match. Mixing metals has been a growing trend for some time, and it’s a fun way to embrace both gold and silver in one look.

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Silver’s cool tone makes it easy to style with almost anything, and it’s been having a big moment this year—both on the runway and with celebrities. Thanks to trends like dopamine dressing, bold and playful combinations are all the rage, with mixed metals being a standout feature.

The Final Takeaway

Ultimately, you should feel confident wearing the jewelry colors that speak to you. However, understanding whether your undertones lean warm or cool and matching that to your jewelry can help you find pieces that enhance your look. While it’s helpful to be aware of how different metals interact with your skin tone, it’s just as important to consider practical factors like skin sensitivities and budget. High-quality metals like gold and sterling silver tend to be the safest and most durable options, but experimenting with costume jewelry can also be a fun way to test out new styles. Once you’ve figured out your go-to jewelry shades, enjoy how they bring your outfit to the next level.